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Man Kicks Protected Sea Lion on Beach
15 Aug
Summary
- A man pleaded guilty to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
- The incident involved repeatedly kicking a sea lion on La Jolla Cove beach.
- Authorities remind the public to stay at least 50 feet from marine mammals.
A young man from San Diego has admitted guilt to a federal offense after a video of him kicking a protected sea lion circulated online. Tyler Muehl, 18, pleaded guilty on Thursday to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The incident occurred on July 22 at La Jolla Cove beach when Muehl was recorded kicking the sea lion as it attempted to move away.
The viral video showed Muehl delivering multiple kicks to the distressed animal. He acknowledged in court that he kicked the sea lion four times, with at least two kicks connecting. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) advises keeping a distance of 50 feet from protected marine mammals. Officials emphasized that intentionally harming such animals is both illegal and dangerous for the wildlife.
